Uldale Force

Uldale Force is a waterfall on the River Rawthey in Cumbria. It sits in a narrow valley between Holmes Moss and Baugh Fell where the river first gathers strength. The water descends in several steps, the tallest reaching fifteen metres. Walkers reach it by following the river upstream from Garsdale. The path stays close to the water’s edge through rough pasture and heather moorland. The force is worth the journey for anyone who enjoys quiet, wild places. It lies just above the river’s source, so the flow is strongest after rain. The surrounding fells rise steeply, keeping the spot secluded even in summer. The sound of falling water mixes with the wind across the open moor. No large crowds gather here, and the only landmarks are the mossy rocks and the rushing stream. Visitors find a series of cascades and small pools among the boulders. The tallest drop is the most impressive, but the whole stretch shows the river’s power. The valley sides are covered in purple heather in late summer. On either bank, stone walls mark old sheep paths. From the top of the falls the view opens over Garsdale and the surrounding fells.